Monsters, Inc.

Not only does Monsters, Inc. feature fantastic animation, it's one of Pixar's best stories, too. While the film was being made, California was subject to rolling blackouts due to Enron's manipulation of the energy market, so it's only fitting that the wizards at the studio came up with this wonderful story about powering Monstropolis with the screams of children. I love this movie, and its treatment on Blu-ray is exceptional in both the audio and video departments, with meticulous attention to detail and first-class sound design.

Morning workout

Chapter 4, 00:04:53

Detail, color

When we first meet Sulley (voiced by John Goodman), he's slumbering before his morning wake-up call. Look at the detail in his fur, the tiny bumps on his nose, and the texture in his horns. Furthermore, check the random texture on the wall of his bedroom.

A narrow escape

Chapter 12, 00:28:32

Audio dynamics, frequency range, surround imaging

Just when Mike (Billy Crystal) doesn't think things can get any worse, a decontamination zone materializes over the kid-infected area. Listen to how the soundfield explodes with electricity and encompasses the room. All the while, the dialog between Mike and Sully remains intelligible despite all the activity.

The door vault

Chapter 27, 1:08:04

Detail, surround imaging, audio dynamics

The depth in this scene is mesmerizing as countless doors move along the myriad tracks. Look at how Sully's fur moves as the trio chase after Boo's door.

Listen to the clanging of the tracks as the doors race about, the intense LFE as the they fly past the camera, and the frantic screams from our heroes on their rollercoaster-like experience.